Marie-Louise Eta has been appointed head coach of a men’s top-flight team, becoming the first woman to lead a men’s side in a major European league.

The 34-year-old, who previously became the first female assistant coach in the Bundesliga, will take charge for the remainder of the season. She said she was “delighted” the club had entrusted her with the responsibility.

Eta’s appointment follows the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart, who was sacked after a poor run of results, including a 3–1 defeat to bottom-placed Heidenheim.

The club has struggled in the second half of the season, winning just two matches since December and sitting seven points above the relegation play-off zone. Sporting director Horst Heldt described the situation as “absolutely disappointing,” adding that recent performances showed little sign of recovery under the previous setup.

Eta, a former Champions League winner with Turbine Potsdam and multiple Bundesliga champion, is already set to take charge of the club’s women’s team from the summer.

While women have previously coached men’s teams in lower divisions, Eta’s appointment marks a first at the top level of European football.